The Karnataka State Election Commission (SEC) has clarified that it has not requested any extension or postponement of the elections to five city corporations under the Greater Bengaluru Authority, despite a request from the state government to defer the timeline. The clarification comes amid confusion over the election schedule.
Supreme Court Directive
According to a directive from the Supreme Court, the election process for these corporations must be completed by June 30. The SEC stated that it has already completed key preparatory steps in line with this deadline. In a statement, the commission said, "As per the commission's directions, final electoral rolls for 369 wards have been published on April 18."
State Government's Request
The state government, through the chief secretary, had urged the SEC to extend the deadline to September 30. The government cited several reasons for this request, including the conduct of census work between April 16 and May 15, the special intensive revision (SIR) of electoral rolls by the Election Commission of India, and the deployment of staff for examination duties.
SEC's Response
The SEC stated that it placed the government's request before the Supreme Court. However, the commission made it clear in its affidavit that it has not independently sought additional time or any postponement of the elections. The SEC emphasized its commitment to adhering to the Supreme Court's timeline and ensuring the electoral process proceeds as scheduled.
This development is significant as it underscores the independence of the SEC in conducting elections without external influence. The commission's stance ensures that the democratic process in the five city corporations remains on track, despite administrative challenges raised by the state government.
